Bartenders often refer to their mixing cups as shakers or mixing tins. There are a few main types:

• Boston shaker: Two-piece set, usually a metal tin and a mixing glass or two tins.
• Cobbler shaker: Three-piece design with a built-in strainer and cap.
• Mixing glass: Used for stirred drinks like martinis or Manhattans.

Each style serves a different purpose, so you’ll see bartenders choose based on the drink they’re making and their personal preference.

The 50% rule in bartending is a guideline for serving customers. It suggests that you should check in with guests when their drink is about halfway finished. This gives you a chance to offer a refill or see if they’d like something else, helping keep service smooth and guests happy. While not a hard rule, it’s a common practice in bars and restaurants to ensure attentive service and avoid empty glasses.

Bartenders use a variety of cups and tools, depending on the drink:

• Shaker tins: For shaking cocktails like margaritas or mojitos.
• Mixing glasses: For stirred drinks, such as martinis.
• Jiggers: Small measuring cups for accurate pours.
• Strainers: To separate ice and solids from the finished drink.

The choice of cup or tool depends on the recipe and the bartender’s style, but these are the most common options you’ll see behind the bar.

A jigger is a bartending tool used to measure liquor. Most jiggers are double-sided, with one side holding 1 ounce and the other side holding 2 ounces (sometimes 1.5 ounces). This makes it easy to measure different amounts for recipes. You’ll also find jiggers in other sizes, but the 1 oz/2 oz style is one of the most common for home and professional bartenders.

To clean a cocktail shaker, follow these steps:

1. Rinse the shaker with warm water right after use to remove any residue.
2. Wash with mild dish soap and a soft sponge, making sure to reach all parts, including the strainer and cap.
3. Rinse thoroughly to remove soap.
4. Dry completely with a towel or let air dry to prevent water spots or rust, especially on stainless steel models.

Regular cleaning helps keep your bar tools in top shape and ready for your next round of drinks.